Controversial plans to create a whisky bothy in the Cairngorms have been temporarily withdrawn following dozens of objections.
Chivas Brothers had hoped to open the tourist venture near its Glenlivet Distillery to provide a more intimate setting for tastings, as well as providing overnight stays.
However, the plans attracted 42 objections from members of the public, including from amateur astronomers concerned about the impact light from the site would have on the night sky.
Now the firm has withdrawn the plans – but vowed to submit them again once it has addressed concerns of local residents.
The area surrounding Tomintoul and Glenlivet was designated the world’s most northerly dark sky park last year due to the lack of light pollution in the area providing clear views of the stars.
The bothy proposals led the Cairngorms National Park Authority to use its powers to assume responsibility from Moray Council to decide the plans as they raised “issues of significance to the collective aims” of the park.
Chivas had stressed in planning documents that lighting used on the site would be designed to minimise the effect on the night sky.
Yesterday, a spokeswoman said: “We are aware of some comments from local residents regarding our planning application for a tasting bothy near Glenlivet Distillery.
“We take all concerns voiced by our neighbours very seriously and for that reason we have withdrawn our current application.
“After consultation with all parties, we’d like to look at resubmitting our application taking into consideration the concerns raised.”